Jorge Jesus faces Ronaldo questions before Norway match

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has left the Cristiano Ronaldo controversy unresolved before Sunday's Nations League meeting with Norway in Porto. His refusal to discuss the captain kept attention on the dispute instead of ending the questions surrounding the team.

Portugal lead their group with nine points from three victories, including two achieved without Ronaldo. The forward remains the national team's record scorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. Norway, described by Jesus as one of Europe's five strongest teams, are the next opponents.

Ronaldo left Portugal's training camp on Wednesday after learning that Jesus intended to keep him out of the starting side for a second successive match. His departure came amid speculation that he could end his international career. Jesus was asked repeatedly about the situation at Saturday's press conference but said he would not provide details before the match. The team's media staff eventually brought the session to an end as the questions continued.

Bruno Fernandes, who appeared alongside the coach, said Ronaldo remained Portugal's leading football symbol and deserved a place among the greatest players in history and in the affections of the Portuguese public. The disagreement therefore remains the main issue around the group leaders as they prepare to face Norway.